Sacrament of Holy Orders

In the sacrament of Holy Orders, a man is ordained a priest, deacon, or bishop.

A priest promises to live a life of celibacy and of obedience to his local bishop. He is given the command to teach, minister, and govern: to teach the people of God and bring them closer to God, to minister the sacraments, and to govern the people, typically through parish ministry.

A deacon may be “permanent” or “transitional”. A permanent deacon is a man who may or may not be married and who has committed his life in service to the church. A transitional deacon is one who intends to become a priest. This is typically the stage one year prior ordination to the priesthood. A deacon, whether permanent or transitional, may baptize and may officiate at weddings.

A bishop is a priest ordained to the special ministry of Shepherd of the people. A bishop typically oversees a Diocese.

To learn more about becoming a priest, contact the Director of Vocations in Maine, Father Seamus Griesbach or click on the link below: